Little Monkeys Learn Nature

Little Monkeys Learn Nature

(My Little Nature Monkeys)

So starting this week I am doing the prep and legwork for a 12 week Nature Activity for any family at my church that wishes to participate this summer. I know as a parent I get frustrated at this class or that activity for kids that sound great, till you hit the price tag!  My goal is to provide a class with a whopping total price tag of the $0.

How though? 3 Simple steps!

Recycling

Legwork/Early Prep

and most important Parent Involvement!

I think the reason people shell out ridiculous amounts for kid activities is that 1) Parents use the activity as babysitting time and 2) Instructors take the expensive way out of hard work and pay companies to put all their supplies together. But the high price tag that results can exclude families many times because the finances just aren't there.

Summertime is the perfect time to do outdoor activities and crafts with your kids. The more you can include knowledge about the outdoors and nature, the better the appreciation our kids will have for it!

Doing such activities though you have to do legwork and research. Never introduce something : plant, animal, insect, fish, anything that isn't a natural component of your local ecosystem.  Know what is considered legal and illegal and when in doubt contact your state DNR office. While ordering out may be easier in the form of kits,  if the item in question could, would, or does harm your ecosystem or local habitat, don't just think twice, say no. Also, while localized catch and release is best make sure its okay. Some animals, wildlife, or nature is protected, endangered, or has seasonal guidelines and even license requirements.

I know this summer my little Nature Monkeys will be dealing with butterflies, frog eggs, fish, and plants to name a few. Each requiring its own research about how is treated in my own state, even county and making sure our activity doesn't cause issues. Even more so educating the Little Monkeys on considerations such as these and teaching them the damage it can cause when Big and Little Monkeys ignore nature.

So expect more posts to come on various aspects of this up and coming summer project!